Let’s be real: summer fashion for women over 60 is every bit as important as it is for younger women.
Sure, you may no longer be exposing your midriff and wearing skimpy skirts. All power to you if you’re confident and have the bod to do that after 60. But dressing for warmer weather can be a bit more of a challenge for some older women.
“There is a big misconception in our culture that women over 60 are invisible, frumpy, and uninterested in sensuality and beauty – that we’re all matronly and sexless and no longer part of the world of fashion, art, and creative life force,” says Sixtyandme founder Margaret Manning.
However, summer fashion for women over 60 need not be frumpy, floral and unflattering. There’s also no need for you to dress ‘younger’ than you are.
“Now that we’re in our 60s (and beyond), we have the simple elegance and freedom that comes from being able to choose the classic styles that truly endure and work for us at any age,” says Margaret.
“Don’t feel like you must succumb to the latest fashion trend. After all, most trends are designed with younger audiences in mind.
“There are many ways to convey style and health and status other than clothes – and sometimes you will exude more confidence and class if your clothing choices are more conservative and classic.
“Dressing age appropriately often has the effect of making you look younger – because people are not distracted by age-inappropriate clothing, and instead can appreciate what great shape you’re in, or how healthy your skin is, or what a stylish haircut you have.”
Here are YourLifeChoices’ summer 2022–23 fashion forecasts. We’ve focused on fresh looks that will remain timeless throughout the years.
Minimal says more
Minimalism style is all over social media and in the streets, and we love it. A well-cut pair of pants or jeans, a simple light blazer or jacket, and shoes or accessories from your capsule wardrobe will ensure effortless style.
For minimalist style also think loose fitting pants, relaxed suits, oversized shirts, knitted tops and dresses. Loose jeans, a T-shirt and a vest. Nothing should be too restrictive. All should be easy and comfortable to wear. What is there not to like?
Dress to boost your mood
You should always dress to feel good – not just to look good. A new trend called ‘dopamine dressing’ is taking big strides towards summer, some say as a fashion antidote for troubled times. It’s all about dressing to boost your mood. Think bright colours, playful prints, or a combo of both, so long as it makes you smile!
Long skirts
The maxi skirt is back in a big way.
“It’s an easy transitional piece that has the power of effortlessly making you look cool,” says Vogue Australia‘s Isabella Mamas.
Every European fashion mag has pages graced with long skirts. And they’re the perfect dress (and look) for the Aussie summer. Elegant, flowing, and free. Able to be dressed up or down: they look good and feel wonderful in warmer weather.
Garden party panache
Feminine prints, floaty silhouettes, paisley, blue and broderie will be big this year. Above the knee dresses in lighter fabrics suit women of any age. Pair any of these outfits with a woven handbag, straw hat and sexy slides and your summer look is complete.
Linen looks
Light-coloured linens in the form of long dresses, slouchy tops, or loose pants will be all the rage this summer. And the good news is they’ll always be in vogue. Whether you’re up for a summer soiree, a walk along the beach, brunch, lunch or dinner dates with friends or family, linen is your go-to summer fabric.
Women over 60 looking for a new yet timeless look this summer will find the look they’re after at Suzanne Grae.
Disclosure: Suzanne Grae is a YourLifeChoices partner.
What’s your ideal summer look? Why not share your summer fashion tips in the comments section below?
